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Comment by nicecars

QubesOS lacks Secure Boot implementation and has insufficient boot chain protection. Its security heavily relies on OS isolation through the Xen hypervisor, though it remains vulnerable to attacks on the hypervisor itself. Furthermore, the operating systems running inside maintain the same characteristics as typical Linux distributions (incomplete exploit mitigation features, weak kernel protection mechanisms, insufficient system call and memory protection), and the security within containers remains limited (unless running an OS with macOS-level security, the internal OS security remains inadequate).

Regarding the elevator pitches provided, QubesOS emphasizes "hardware isolation" and makes claims such as being "better than physical air-gap," though in practice it operates at the virtualization level. The system's fundamental security considerations could benefit from more detailed explanation. The suggestion to store passwords in plain text (even in cases of Xen escape, offline status wouldn't provide protection, and storing in plain text presents risks) might lead to misconceptions about security. While the endorsement by Edward Snowden is noted, it would be helpful to focus more on the technical aspects and implementation details.

parent nicecars 1 year ago

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